Editorial: Price of freedom apparent today

America honors nation's veterans

Posted: Monday, November 11, 2002

The war on terrorism has altered the way Americans view war.

Rather than the fear of an encroaching army or the imposing threat of a country on par with us militarily, the nation now is concerned with rogue states, murderous dictators and cowardly underground fanatics who choose to attack without warning, using methods never before considered.

However, one thing that has not changed is the resolve of the greatest military belonging to the greatest nation on Earth.

And it is those proud men and women we honor today.

When Veterans Day began following the end of World War I, it was a day for the nation to honor and recognize those who have proudly served their country, many making the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom.

While the nature of war may have changed, the meaning and significance of this day has not.

American men and women are risking their lives in Afghanistan and may be called on again by their country to remove the threat of terrorism in Iraq.

We are grateful for the sacrifice made by those individuals, and for the countless others who have done the same from the very founding of this nation.

America has persevered through a revolution, a Civil War, two World Wars and subsequent wars in Korea and Vietnam, the latter of which caused an entire country to search its soul.

Still, through it all, freedom rings.

And today we wish to join in thanking those who have paid the price - and are paying the price now - for this freedom.